Community Learning and Development (CLD) is a coherent and distinctive set of practices defined by clearly identified competences and values.  It is delivered in diverse settings and sectors by practitioners with a wide range of job titles, working with people of all ages.  The workforce includes both paid staff and volunteers.

Professional learning is key to the effectiveness of those who work in Community Learning and Development. We work closely with CLD organisations to promote, develop, provide and co-ordinate a range of learning approaches and opportunities to improve individual practice and professional development.

Related links

CLD Standards Council - Find out more about the work the Standards Council is doing to develop and promote the CLD sector and support the CLD workforce through Professional Learning.

Professional learning resources can be found on the National Improvement Hub.

i-develop - A web service designed to support creative and innovative learning and development for CLD practitioners. It is provided by the CLD Standards Council as part of the Professional Development Strategy: Growing the Learning Culture.

Leading CLD professional learning programme 2022-23
Education Scotland and the CLD Standards Council (with expert advice from CLD Managers Scotland, and academics from Further Education and Higher Education), have developed a learning programme for CLD leaders with a responsibility for the management and leadership of CLD services, and partnerships. The first cohort, is running as a pilot February – May 2022. For further information please email Susan.Epsworth@educationsotland.gov.scot

Community Learning and Development Managers Scotland (CLDMS) provides a national focus on professional issues and standards for community learning and development (CLD) provision.